Things to do in Galway

‘Ireland’s most charming city’ – New York Times

‘Best in Travel 2020’ – Lonely Planet

Galway really is the city that has it all! From charm and culture to fun and fine food, there is something for everyone in the “jewel of the West”.

Check out the colourful streets, eat in cutting-edge restaurants, enjoy great nights out and soak up the sights and sounds of this buzzing city. If you do it from the comfort of our city centre hotel, it’s all right there for you, just around the corner.

From the city, it is just a short drive to the most picturesque countryside in the world. Connemara, the Wild Atlantic Way and the West of Ireland are all right here just waiting to be explored!

Galway City has just finished its year as the European Capital of Culture and with its array of museums, galleries and theatres, it is clear why it was chosen.

For inspiration on things to do in Galway, check out the Discover Ireland website, where you'll find a range of exciting activities and attractions waiting to be explored.

Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it right here in Galway. And if you need help, just ask us. We’re only too happy to lend you a bit of our local knowledge and make sure you enjoy the perfect break.

The City

Galway City is a thriving, bohemian, cultural city on the west coast of Ireland. Along with being a popular seaside destination with a beautiful winding promenade, it also has a buzzing cosmopolitan city centre.

The city is a joy to explore with its cobbled streets, colourful shop facades and busy café/bar culture. Right in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way, the city has a reputation for artistic creativity and an infectious up-tempo vibe that’s played out in a full calendar of festivals and events. From music and horseracing to literature and oysters, Galway knows how to celebrate.

Lonely Planet ranked Galway among the ‘Top Five Cities in the World for 2020’. According to its global travel index, “brilliantly bohemian” Galway is Ireland's most engaging city.

The New York Times describes it as ‘Ireland’s most charming city’: “Cozy, old-fashioned pubs showcase the city’s ever-growing selection of craft beers, chefs serve up west-of-Ireland ingredients in creative new ways, and almost every building housing a modern cafe or new atelier has a centuries-old story behind it.”